OBITUARIES for Thursday, January 11, 2024

WILLIAM S. TANNER III

FAIRFIELD – William Stanley Tanner III (Bill Sr.), 77, of Fairfield, died at his home, attempting to remove a downed tree from his driveway, on December 18, 2023. Bill was born on November 25, 1946, in Mineola, New York, the only child of William and Greta.

Bill attended St. Paul Academy, in Long Island, New York, but he would spend his summers at a family camp in Oakland, on Messalonskee Lake (Snow Pond). While Bill excelled as a carpenter and insurance salesman, his passion centered around substance abuse recovery and community health. As a result, Bill worked for years as a counselor at HealthReach, in Waterville, and eventually developed a counseling program at the Franklin County Jail.

During this time, Bill earned his bachelor’s degree from University of Maine at Orono, a master’s degree from Springfield College, in Springfield, Masssachusetts, and his PhD in psychology and community rehabilitation from Union Institute. As a result of his exposure to adults suffering from dual diagnosis issues and incarceration, Dr. Tanner created Community Correctional Alternatives; a mental health agency providing rehabilitation services to adults in their homes.

And, since this all didn’t keep him busy enough, Dr. Tanner was also a professor at Kennebec Valley Community College. Dr. Tanner, known most humbly as Bill, worked until the day he passed serving his community as a case manager at the Waterville Homeless Shelter.

Bill was extremely outgoing, generous, and well-known in the community. His hobbies included golf, watching sports, and building additions onto his home. He appreciated good art and fine clothing. He passed on his love of education and pride in his work to his sons and grandchildren. He was greatly loved, and will be terribly missed.

He is survived by his wife, Sherry Tanner; his sons William Tanner IV, and Ryan Tanner; daughter Deanna Tanner; stepsons Roman, Chris, and Roy Cardenas; and 15 grandchildren.

Bill was predeceased by his parents, William II and Greta Tanner; and stepson, Gary Lee.

Please join the family for a celebration of Bill’s life on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at the Best Western Hotel, on Main St., Waterville, from 2 – 5 p.m.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home.

TERRY W. MICHAUD

FAIRFIELD – Terry W. Michaud, 68, passed away of natural causes at his home, in Fairfield, on Wednesday, December 20, 2023. Terry was born October 31, 1955, in Fort Fairfield, to Wilbert and Maxine Michaud.

While a young child, the family moved to Fairfield, where Terry was a Boy Scout and graduated from Lawrence High School in 1974. He participated in multiple sports throughout his school years and was Mr. LHS his senior year. After graduation Terry attended Thomas College, in Waterville, prior to transferring to the University of Southern Maine (USM), in Gorham, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

In 1976, he married his Junior High School sweetheart Lori Butler. They had two children, Derek, and Michelle.

While attending USM, Terry worked for Westbrook Police Department and earned that department’s highest award for his role in a murder investigation. After graduation, the State of Maine hired him as a Probation and Parole Officer. During this time, Terry also continued his interest in sports and became a track and field coach at Skowhegan Area High School. He was twice awarded KVAC coach of the year but was most proud of the successes of his athletes and assistant coaches, who went on to be college athletes, coaches, and good citizens. After 21 years as a probation officer, Terry began a second career as a high school athletic administrator at Skowhegan, where he loved his time working with and supporting students and coaches.

Terry was always highly active in his community. He was a member of All Saint’s and St. Mark’s Episcopal Churches, a 36-year member of the Elks Club, an MSAD #49 School Board member, and served on the Fairfield planning board.

Terry continued his lifelong love of athletics attending many high school (Lawrence and Skowhegan), college (UMaine), and professional contests (Bruins, Celtics, Patriots, Red Sox). He previously participated in road races and enjoyed riding his motorcycle, boating, “camp-life,” traveling, and golf. He recently became a Premier League football fan, cheering on his team, Liverpool. He enjoyed poetry, and all music attending rock concerts and symphonies. His happiest times were always spent with his wife and children, whom he loved beyond words.

Terry was predeceased by his father, Wilbert, and brother, George.

He is survived by his spouse of 47 years, Lori; son Derek and daughter Michelle Michaud; his mother, Maxine Morrissette; brothers, Kevin and Roger Michaud, Denver (Victoria) and Elmer (Debbie) Brown; sisters, Theresa Sullens, Bernadette (Lloyd) Staples, and Elizabeth Brown; sisters in-law, Carol (Glenn) Booker, Lisa (Glen Merrow) Coates; and brother in-law, Ad (Sandy) Butler. Terry is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and uncles, Irvin Michaud, and Sterling Davenport.

Terry will be laid to rest at Maplewood Cemetery in Fairfield in the spring.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

RONALD J. ROSSIGNOL

WATERVILLE – Ronald Joseph Rossignol, 91, passed away on Thursday, December 21, 2023, at Lakewood Nursing Home, inWaterville. Ron was born, in Waterville, on March 10, 1932, the 13th child out of 14 to Octave and Helen (Landry) Rossignol.

He often told his children that being the baby boy meant no new spoils and was happy to receive things passed down by his siblings. He attended The Brother’s School, in Waterville, and in 1951 graduated from Waterville High School, where he lettered in football.

Coming from a large family, Ron and his siblings helped to support. He was extremely proud to have stayed in school to completion. Post graduation and during the Korean War, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He loved his country and was proud to have served during war time. He later was honorably discharged due to a medical condition and as a disabled veteran remained dedicated.

Family and friends knew him by many nicknames: Ronnie, Ron, Rosie, Uncle Diddy, and Mustache. Ron married the love of his life, Shirley Marie Hebert, on June 16, 1956, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, in Waterville. A piece of granite from the church during its demolition was engraved with their names, wedding date, and interlocking wedding rings was presented to them during an anniversary celebrating 67 years of marriage and being the proud parents of five children.

His happy moments were taking road trips, going to Harpswell to an ocean front home, and breakfast on Fridays with his youngest daughter. His infectious smile and pocket full of jokes put him at the top of his game as a salesman. Always dressing sharply for work at W.T. Grant and Levine’s Store for Men & Boys, both in Waterville. His sparkling personality could sell you the Two-Cent Bridge. After 22 years of service, Ron retired from the Waterville Post Office where he kept employees in stitches with his antics. He loved working on carpentry projects at their home at Edgemont Avenue where he took such pride in ownership and created many beautiful masterpieces. He always planted a garden, and we all enjoyed the produce of his skilled hands.

Back in the day Ron loved to bowl in many leagues. With his doubles partner, they captured the city doubles championship. He also was an avid fisherman and spent numerous hours in the woods hunting with his son and friends. He was always up for a game of horseshoes or cribbage. But his favorite pastime was the game of golf where he won club championships at J. W. Parks Golf Course, in Pittsfield, and Cedar Springs Golf Course, in Albion.

People gravitated to Ron like he was a celebrity, and he had a host of friends all over the country. Ron was honored to recite and be known as “The Man in the Glass”, at AA meetings. He used his own life lessons to give back to those who were struggling and this past September at a meeting celebrated 35 years of sobriety.

He was a proud parishioner of Sacred Heart Church, inWaterville, where he served as a Eucharistic minister during Masses and distributing at homes of the ill. Ron enjoyed watching the Boston Red Sox, Patriots, Bruins, and Celtics. He loved going to breakfast with the “Boys” on Saturday mornings, especially with his best friend Bobby. For a quiet time, Ron enjoyed sitting at his keyboard to play his favorite songs. Well-known to whistle a tune or use his skill to garner up his children at sunset… we’re all certain he whistled his way Home. We love you Dad.

Other than his parents, Ron was predeceased by all his siblings, Emily (Harold) Buzzell, Oram (Cecile) Rossignol, Roland, Irene (Roland) Couture, Lorraine (Raymond) Gagnon, Frederick “Louis”, Alfreda (Fernand) Veilleux, Rose (Norman) Grenier, Noella Rossignol, Jerome (Marjorie), Madeline (Robert) Mattall, Harold and Jacqueline Rossignol; many nieces and nephews; and his great-grandson Liam.

Ron is survived by his wife Shirley; children Royce (Diane) Rossignol, Rhea (Robert Colford) Hunt, Rhonda (Michael) Boyett, Renee Dunphe, and Ryan (Lisa); sister-in-law Joyce Dall Rossignol; many nieces and nephews; nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Services and burial will occur in June, details be announced at a later time.

Please visit Ron’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/ronald-rossignol where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

HAROLD BICKFORD

BENTON – Harold Bickford, 77, a life-long resident of Benton, passed away on Monday, December 25, 2023, following a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. Born on August 6, 1946, Harold was the husband of Janice Shores Bickford.

Harold’s love extended beyond his family to his faithful canine companions. An avid dog lover, he always had at least one loyal friend by his side, with his cherished Poppy remaining steadfast until the very end.

Professionally, Harold was a well-known local builder who took great pride in his workmanship. He estimated that he built 100 brand new homes and undertook countless renovations, leaving a long lasting mark on the community he loved.

Harold’s impact on the community extended beyond his family and professional life. A dedicated volunteer, he found joy in contributing to the well-being of others. In the late 1970s, Harold pioneered the first Girls PAL basketball league, leaving an enduring legacy in the community. He continued to coach various PAL girls teams in both basketball and softball, instilling a love for sports and teamwork in countless young athletes. In recognition of his unwavering dedication, he received the Bulldog Award in the 1990s, a testament to his significant contributions to the team and the entire Bulldog community.

Harold’s passion for community service and the love of sports also led him to spend over two decades as part of the “Chain Gang” during Lawrence Bulldog varsity football games.

Harold’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of his sister Louise Bickford Blackburn, in San Marcos, California, and his brothers Ron and Glen Bickford, both of Benton. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who will remember him with love.

Harold is survived by his two daughters, Cathy Bickford Bourque and husband Brian Bourque, of Benton, and Jill Bickford Brooks, and husband Bill Brooks, of Corinna; his grandchildren, Jayden Brooks, of Corinna, Alyssa Bourque, Ryan Bourque, and Kaylyn Bourque, all of Benton; stepdaughter, Stacy Higgins, of Fairfield; and two step-grandchildren, John French and Kaylee Valcourt, both of Fairfield.

Harold did not want a formal service, however, there will be a celebration of life on Sunday, March 17, from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Fairfield Community Center, located at 61 Water Street in Fairfield.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

CARROLL HIGGINS

ALBION – Carroll Higgins of Albion, Maine passed on Wedndesday, December 27, 2023, at Lakewood Nursing Home, in Waterville. Carroll was a self-employed carpenter with many talents.

He was predeceased by his parents, Earl S. and Laura G. Higgins.

He is survived by his brother Robert Higgins; cousin Leah Scott.

A private graveside service will take place in the spring.

FAITH POMERLEAU

WINSLOW – Faith Pomerleau, 22, of Winslow, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 27, 2023. Faith was born August 23, 2001, the daughter of Brian and Briana Pomerleau.

Faith’s personality was larger than life, she had an unforgettable laugh that was contagious, and a smile that would light up any room she danced her way into. She was an extremely outgoing and loveable person. Faith was highly adored by her niece and nephews, and everyone she met immediately gravitated towards her fun-loving nature.

Faith is survived by her parents, and grandparents; five siblings, Ryan Pomerleau and partner Courtney Ferrara, Brendon Pomerleau and wife Megan Pomerleau, Chantelle Rines and husband Jason Rines, Josh Pomerleau and wife Veronica Pomerleau, and brother Austin Pomerleau; grandmother Allison Libby; her grandfather Robert Pomerleau; as well as her many nephews and niece, Ayden Pomerleau, Keegan Pomerleau, Caleb Pomerleau, McKenna Pomerleau and Jack Rines; aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her Nana, Rhonda Morgan, and her uncle, Cory Hastings.

The family held a private celebration of life for Faith on Saturday, January 6, 2024. Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book may be signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

BRADFORD P. MUNDY

OAKLAND – Bradford Philip Mundy, 85, passed away Saturday, December 30, 2023, following a short but mighty battle with cancer. Brad was born on Kristall­nacht, Nov­ember 9, 1938, in Warrens­burg, New York, the oldest of five children, to Philip and Lavinia Mundy.

At age one, because of new employment for his father, the family moved to Schenectady, New York, where his two sisters, Phyllis and Sandra, were born. Another move back to Warrensburg, and the family grew again to include his brother Alan. Brad started school at Warrensburg Central School.

The family again moved back to Schenectady, where Brad’s brother James was born. Brad attended and graduated from Mont Pleasant High School in the Technical Mechanical Program, which was rich in pre-engineering math and science, preparing students for industrial work. There were no thoughts of college. However, because of its modest fees, in 1957 Brad was able to enter Albany State Teachers College majoring in mathematics.

Because of a great teacher, Richard F. Smith, Brad was drawn into chemistry, a subject that became a lifetime love affair. Throughout his undergraduate years, Brad spent summers in Warrensburg, working as a bartender in a summer resort, which provided a separate education.

After graduating from Albany State, Brad enrolled in the Master’s Program there. During his first year, he was offered a full fellowship to enroll in the Chemistry Ph.D. program at The University of Vermont. During that summer he worked doing weather research and was the Whiteface Mountain radio weather reporter for Lake Placid, New York. Brad continued his three-year Ph.D. program working on a mechanistic problem and the synthesis of natural perfume constituent, beta-vetivone.

In 1963, during his second year at the University of Vermont, Brad married Margaret R. Saimond. After finishing his Ph.D., they moved to Berkeley, California. where Brad began a post-doctoral program at University of California Berkeley, working on the details of how the tobacco plant makes nicotine.

While at Berkeley, Brad and Margaret’s son, Christopher, was born. After completing his post-doctoral studies, they moved to Bozeman, Montana, where Brad started his teaching/research career. In Montana, their family grew to include two daughters, Ellen and Jill.

Brad spent 26 years at Montana State University as a professor, department head, and Associate Dean of Letters and Science, as well as one year at the National Science Foundation, in Washington, DC. In 1992 Brad accepted an offer of department chairmanship and the Miselis Endowed Chair, at Colby College, in Waterville.

In his teaching career, Brad received numerous teaching awards. He also published more than 13 chemistry textbooks and was a member of The American Chemical Society. After retirement, Brad and Margaret bought a home in Oakland, and a summer camp on Great Pond. Good neighbors, good friends, and great times were part of the summers at camp.

Brad always said he had a great life! Margaret (great wife and partner), excellent children (who married well), the nicest grandchildren (called him PaPa or Grampy), and wonderful places to live. Most of all, the opportunity to be a teacher…in the classroom, laboratory, and at home with his own children and grandchildren. His students were a blessing and kept him young.

Brad’s parting wishes for everyone: Live life with gusto. Yesterday is gone, tomorrow is not yet available, and today, right now, is what you have. Live fully, do nothing to leave regrets and be curious about everything. Be a good person.

Brad is survived by his wife of 60 years, Margaret; his children, Christopher Mundy (Marion), Ellen Shuler (Dain), and Jill Putnam (Jon); his grandchildren Philip Shuler, Ethan Shuler, Seth Putnam (Jamie), Carson Putnam, Nicholas Mundy and Sophie Mundy; his siblings Phyllis Veith, Sandra Pigliavento, Alan Mundy (Jacqueline), and Cheryl Mundy; his nieces, nephews.

Brad was preceded in death by his parents, Philip and Lavinia Mundy, Margaret’s parents, Charles and Angela Saimond; his brother James Mundy; his niece Lisa Pigliavento; and his brothers-in-law, Paul Saimond, Lee Pigliavento, and John Veith.

Funeral services are being planned for later in the spring in both Waterville, and Bozeman, Montana. Services will be announced.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

RICHARD C. DILLIHUNT

SIDNEY – Richard C. “Rick” Dillihunt, 74, of Sidney, died on Sunday, December 31, 2023, at home. Rick was born in Augusta on April 16, 1949, to Charles E. “Bud” Dillihunt and Bertha “Babe” (Fortier) Dillihunt.

Rick graduated from Forest Hills High School, in Jackman, in 1967.

On August 23, 1969, Rick married Christa Quirion, of Jackman. In January 1969, Rick went to work for Central Maine Power Company (CMP), in Portland. He began as a meter reader then moved into the line department, first as a groundman apprentice, but quickly advancing to first class lineman.

Some of his fondest memories were of working in the Portland Line Department. In 1975, Rick and his wife, Christa, moved to Greenville where he joined a small line crew. He later became the local representative for CMP for the Greater Greenville Area. In 1985, he transferred to Augusta to become a line/telephone coordinator. Rick retired from CMP after 41 years of service.

Rick was an avid hunter, fisherman, outdoorsman, and snowmobiler. He truly enjoyed the month of October for partridge hunting and was often complimented on his ability to “shoot a bird on the fly.” November was especially enjoyable for (deer) “hunting week” in Jackman with his friends. He was a valued member of The Turner Pond Club for a number of years.

In addition to his outdoor interests, Rick was also an accomplished home cook specializing in everything from appetizers, to entrees, to desserts. Rick could often be found early in the morning surfing the internet for his next recipe or creating a grocery list for the day’s cooking project. He was famous for feeding hearty meals to his family, friends, and neighbors. It was rare to visit his home and not leave with a “doggie bag” with requests for feedback on new recipes. Rick was happiest in the kitchen surrounded by his recipes and his family.

Rick is survived by his wife of 54 years, Christa (Quirion) Dillihunt, of Sidney; his son, Chad Dillihunt, of Winslow; his daughter, Jenny Dillihunt Brown and husband Gary “Bobby” Brown, of Augusta; and two granddaughters, Abby and Lily Brown, the lights of his life.

Rick was predeceased by his father, Bud, and his mother, Babe.

Per Rick’s wishes, there will be no memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Jackman Regional Paramedicine Program, Town of Jackman, 369 Main St., Jackman, ME 04945, or to MaineGeneral Hospice, 10 Water St., Suite 307, Waterville, ME 04901.

DANA A. BOLDUC

MESA, Arizona – Dana A. Bolduc, 82, passed away on Sunday, December 31, 2023, at home in Mesa, Arizona. He was born in Waterville, December 27, 1941.

Dana was taught by the Ursuline Sisters, kindergarten through fourth grade, Brothers of Christian Instruction, at Notre Dame School, fifth through eighth grade then was educated in Waterville public schools. He earned an Associate of Arts in Social Services in May 1999 from the University of Maine.

He was active in high school athletics, hockey, baseball, football, track, and javelin throw in 1959 which he held the school record until 2008. After high school, he had an interest in sports as well as local politics.

Dana served on the Winslow School committee and was a member of St. John Church Parish Council, in Winslow. In Waterville, he served on the Notre Dame Church Parish Council and co-chaired Mayor Nancy Hill’s successful campaign committee. He enjoyed bowling, golf, and fishing.

He worked at Kilroy’s, then Levine’s clothing store, in Waterville, started in 1960 and worked for 29 years, Waterville police officer briefly, Knights of Columbus Council #7520 Notre Dame Waterville, as well as Eucharistic minister and a lecturer at Notre Dame, Our Lady of Guadalupe Council #14101 Queen Creek, Arizona, and Queen of Peace Council # 9446 Mesa, Arizona. He was also a lecture with Council #9446. Waterville Public Schools 1997 to 2005, worked with special education and Apache Junction and Gold Canyon, in Arizona, from 2006 to 2011. He enjoyed working with those that did not fit the mold.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years Monica Tremblay Bolduc; five children Joan Bolduc, of Waterville, Jane Stevenson and husband Mark Stevenson, Ph.D., of Gilbert, Arizona, Jessica Marquis and Timothy, of Orono, Jennifer Thomson and husband James, of Elkmont, Alabama, Matthew Bolduc and wife Candice, of Apache Junction, Arizona; 12 grandchildren, Benjamin Bolduc, Ph.D. and wife Britany Fonner, Ph.D., of Columbus, Ohio, Holly McMullen and husband Michael, of Mesa, Arizona, Dana Champagne and husband Nicholas, of Waterville, Ryan Thomson, of Daleville, Alabama, Kayla Marquis and Joshua Carr, of Glenburn, Tyler Thomson, of Elkmont, Alabama, Joshua Marquis and wife Giorgia Calcagno, of Palmyra, Andrew Thomson and wife Judyth, of Elkmont, Alabama, Gabrielle Marquis, of Orono, Conner Thomson, of Elkmont, Alabama, Dominique Bolduc, of Apache Junction, Arizona, and Leanne Thomson, of Elkmont, Alabama; seven great-grandchildren, Juliette, David, MacKenzie, Owen, Harley, Chance, and Lucas; one great-great-grandchild, Henry Cardenas due February 5, 2024; as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Dana was preceded by a son Richard Bolduc, his parents, Dominique and Joan Bolduc, and a brother Donald Bolduc.

The funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at Queen of Peace, Mesa, Arizona, at 10:30 a.m., live-streamed at https://www.youtube. com/channel/UC4MOjjrkx2fpWQRIvPt3g3Q/featured https://www.facebook.com/@QueenOfPeaceMesa with the celebration of life to follow in the welcome center at Queen of Peace.

A Memorial Mass and burial will be held in Waterville, summer of 2024.

In lieu of, flowers please donate to St. Vincent de Paul in his memory.

PATRICIA J. DAMREN

AUGUSTA – Patricia Jean (Barr) Manley Damren, 80, of Pittston, passed away on Monday, January 1, 2024, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta, following a period of declining health due to complications of chronic kidney disease. Pat was born in Waterville on September 2, 1943, the youngest of the three daughters of Vernon C. and Virginia (Graves) Barr.

She grew up on the family farm in Sidney and graduated from Williams High School, in Oakland, in 1961. She worked at Augusta General Hospital for six years and then in the accounting office of Hammond Lumber Company, in Belgrade, where she retired after 30 years of service. After her retirement, she continued to work during income tax season for Laurie A. Lawrence Accounting, LLC, in Pittston.

Pat married Leo A. Damren in 1986. She enjoyed their many trips together, whether to Young’s Lobster Pound, in Belfast, the stock car races at Oxford Plains Speedway or the Fryeburg Fair.

She was a very reserved and unassuming individual and disliked being the center of attention. She nevertheless cared deeply for her many loved ones. She is fondly remembered for the large Thanksgiving dinners she prepared for her growing extended famliy. She enjoyed camping, motorcycle riding, four-wheeling, knitting, spending time with family and friends, and watching dramas on Lifetime Movie Channel.

Pat was predeceased by her infant granddaughter, Vanessa Manley, in 2001; her son, Troy C. Manley, in 2011; her husband, Leo A. Damren, in 2018; and her daughter-in-law, Teresa Manley, in 2020.

She is survived by her son, Douglas G. Manley and her granddaughter Britney Manley, both of Kelsterbach, Germany; sisters Norma L. (Barr) Roberts, of Fairfield, and Sandra (Barr) Bickford Gradie and her husband Ted, of Oakland; sister-in-law, Rosella A. (Damren) Morrow, of Wells; step-siblings Jeffrey, Robert and Betsy Campbell, of Sidney; step-children Dana M. Damren and his wife Janet, of Augusta, Brenda M. (Damren) Baker and her husband Bill, of Augusta, Sheila A. Damren, of Columbus, Ohio, and Lorna A. Damren, of Portland; eight step-grandchildren; many step-great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews; and cousins; and her special friend and Guardian Angel, Harold “Butch” James III, of Pittston.

At Pat’s request, there will be no funeral service. Her ashes will be buried in the spring along side her husband Leo and near her infant granddaughter, at St. Mary’s Cemetery, in Manchester.

Donations in her memory may be made to P.A.L.S. No-Kill Cat Shelter, in Winthrop.

LAYA JOSEPH

WATERVILLE – Laya Joseph, 87, of Waterville, passed away on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at her home. Laya was born in Lebanon, where she married her late husband, Wadeah Joseph.

Together they moved to the United States and settled in Waterville. Shortly after their daughter Nada was born, Laya’s husband passed away. She moved back to Lebanon with her daughter with the intention of living there but later fled the country as the war (World War II) had started. She made the very difficult decision to leave her family in order to give her daughter a better life in the United States.

Laya was a devout Catholic and belonged to St. Joseph’s Maronite Catholic Church, in Waterville. She was a member of the Rosary Solidarity and volunteered endless hours cooking for church events. Most importantly Laya was known in the community as being the bright light and backbone of the Lebanese Cuisine for the past 44 years. Her warm smiling face, tender heart, and giving spirit was loved by all who knew her.

Laya was the matriarch of the family. She handled all obstacles in her life with strength and resiliency. She took pride in her role as a mother, sister, and aunt. Laya’s love in life was spending time with her family. She was passionate about making sure her loved ones were well cared for in many ways, this was exhibited through her continuous acts of selflessness throughout her entire life. Laya was also known for her delicious cooking. She spent hours preparing delectable Lebanese meals.

No words can express how deeply she will be missed. Heaven has gained another angel.

Laya was predeceased by her husband Wadeah Joseph.

She is survived by her daughter, Nada Joseph, of Waterville; sister Yvonne Farhat, of Lebanon; brothers Salim Nasr, Nassim Nasr and wife Joyce, all of Waterville; niece Rita Karter and husband John, of Waterville; and her great-nephews Elias and Evan Karter; as well as many nieces and nephews, in Lebanon.

A private Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Joseph’s Maronite Catholic Church.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook can be signed, condolences and memories shared, at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to: St. Joseph’s Maronite Catholic Church, in Waterville.

DAVID T. CHOATE

WINDSOR – David T. Choate, 83, of Windsor, passed peacefully on the morning of Wednesday, January 3, 2024.  David was born on June 23, 1940, a son of Donald and Mavis (Turner) Choate.

David was known for many things, his construction business, his service as a U.S. Postal rural route carrier, his tireless winters of plowing snow for various towns and businesses, but none will ever define him as  much as his love of cows and farming.

David started at a very young age as a farm hand on his grandfather’s farm, eventually making his way to the University of Maine-Orono to become a graduate of the Agricultural Services program in 1965. He continued from there as a farm manager for Lipman Poultry Co., and eventually started his own farm in Windsor, on Clover Hill Road, where he raised beef and dairy cattle.  You could expect if he was working on your construction site or foundation in June and the sun was shining you might have a hard time finding him unless you knew which field his haying equipment was in that day.  He lived his passion and there is a lesson in that for us all.

David is survived by his former wife and best friend, Diana Choate; his two daughters, Mary Dee Grant and Joanne Choate, both of New Harbor; his three sons, Chris Choate and his wife Randi, of Rockland, Michael Choate and his partner Jennifer, of Liberty, and Matthew Choate, of Coopers Mills; and several grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life in David’s honor will be held in the spring at a date and time to be announced. A private graveside service will be held for immediate family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Erskine Academy, 309 Windsor Rd., South China, Maine 04358.

Arrangements have been entrusted to: Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363. Condolences, stories, or photos may be shared by visiting www.plumemrfh.com.

HELEN L. HOAD

WINDSOR – Helen L. Hoad, 71, died Wednesday, January 3, 2024, in the comfort of her home where she resided for more than 40 years and raised three children with her husband Steve.

Helen was happy until her last breath. Her passing, though sudden, was without suffering or pain.

Helen’s life’s work was always hands on with individuals: at Pineland, in New Gloucester, Uplift, in Gardiner, and Augusta Mental Health, she was an aid and support person. In 1993 Helen graduated from the Downeast School of Massage and fulfilled her dream of serving clients with love, healing hands and care as a certified massage therapist until August 2015 from her office in Augusta, and also was proud to offer onsite chair massages at businesses and events whenever possible to bring Massage to those unable to come to her.

Through good times, trials, and illness Helen was fiercely independent. She will be remembered for assisting teaching and learning from friends and family. Helen enjoyed cooking, as did all who tasted it. Her joy for life and love for all filled our home.

Helen was born in Lewiston, on Oct. 13, 1952, to Eliane and Ralph Plante (deceased).

She was predeceased by daughter, Emma Hoad, in March of 1983.

She is survived by husband Steve; their son Samuel; daughters, Roseanne and Penelope; grandchildren, Ashton, Scarlett, Emily Hoad and Cameron Foisy.

Friends are welcome Friday, January 12, from 4-6 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor Chapel, 983 Ridge Road, Rt. 32, Windsor.

Condolences, stories, and photos may be shared through the funeral home website at: http://www.plummerfh.com.

Thanks and donations may be mailed in Helen’s name to Windsor Volunteer Fire/Rescue, P.O. Box 179, Windsor, ME, 04363.

LAURETTA ELLIS

WATERVILLE – Lauretta “Laurie” Ellis, 92, of Waterville and Augusta, passed away Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at Comfort Care at Glenridge, in Augusta, following a brief illness.

There will be an internment at the Center Vassalboro Baptist Church Cemetery in the spring. Those wishing to give testimony to Lauretta’s life may leave their thoughts in the online guestbook.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Aable Cremation Service, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.aablecremationservice.com.

DONALD E. ZALTZBERG

WATERVILLE – Donald Earl Zaltzberg, 66, passed away on Thursday, January 4, 2024, at the Hospice House, in Auburn. He was born and raised in Massachusetts, spent the last 20-plus years of his life in Waterville, until his passing. He was the son of the late Irving and Hester C. Zaltzberg.

He graduated from Malden High School, in Massachusetts, in 1975, and went on to have a thriving business of his own. He was always willing to help anybody in need and was there to fix your oil burner at the drop of a hat.

Donald had a quick wit and a great sense of humor. He enjoyed spending his time doing a variety of different things such as bowling, dancing, going to comedy shows, traveling with his family and friends, watching the New England Patriots, riding his motorcycle, and just going out to have a good time. He had a great love for his many cats and even went so far as to tell his nieces and nephews that he could “speak cat” and always knew what they were saying to him.

Donald was well loved by a wide range of people but most importantly by his family. He is going to be missed by everyone, who’s life he touched.

He is survived by his son, Donnie Zaltzberg; and his granddaughter Reagan; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his siblings, Bonnie Young, James Bannen, Alan Zaltzberg, Debra White, and Andra Toppi.

Interment will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield, where memories may be shared, and an online register book may be signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Boston Children’s Hospital or the Boston Children’s Hospital Research Center.